A TEENAGE apprentice became chief executive of a Lancashire firm as part of a job swap.

Kelly Jenkinson, 19, of Higher Avondale Road, Darwen, is an apprentice in business administration with Training 2000, and took over from chief executive Steve Gray for the day.

She carries out administrative work at Connexions, the national government organisation, which provides 13-to-19-year-olds with personal advice on issues including employment and health.

She was put forward by her manager at Connexions' head office in Guide, and was chosen after showing drive and ambition' for the swap.

Over the course of the day she made important phone calls to a government department, reviewed marketing material, and toured Training 2000's Blackburn site.

She was also interviewed for radio programmes, met up with first-year apprentices and made suggestions on improving the firm.

She said: "When I found out I'd been chosen, I was extremely nervous but really pleased to have been recognised for my determination and ability one day, I would love to run my own business so this is a fantastic opportunity to learn and progress."

Mr Gray said: "Kelly handled the whole day with confidence and professionalism "I was particularly impressed with the way she stood up in front of a group of very senior people and told them how she would go about improving certain elements of the organisation.

"Kelly was selected to be chief executive for the day because of the promise she showed on her NVQ course and her ambition to progress within business and make something of her career.

"She has made an admirable contribution and will certainly be a valuable asset to any organisation in the future."